The floods on Aug. 26 killed at least 1,287 people, left more than 5,000 missing, and caused damage estimated at 387.5 billion Nepalese rupees ($2.5 billion). The disaster also trapped workers in hydropower tunnels across the country.

About 900 workers are missing from 12 hydropower projects. Roughly 500 are believed trapped in various tunnels, and about 115 are thought to be trapped in the Trishuli 3A tunnel alone, according to the Independent Power Producers Association of Nepal.

The successful rescue shows that lives can still be saved, but the large number of missing workers highlights the urgent need for continued rescue efforts, resources, and attention to prevent further loss.